Munich Startup: What motivated you to found a company?
Lea Frank: When it comes to founding, it was my internships at corporations that confirmed that I wanted to start my own company. Being one of the co-founders of Anybill is a result of being annoyed by all the printed receipts in my wallet.
Munich Startup: What do you now wish you had known before founding your first company?
Lea Frank: Starting a company is a rollercoaster ride. It’s essential to persevere, stay on the ball and remain true to yourself.
Munich Startup: How have you funded your company so far?
Lea Frank: We acquired our first strategic partner in January 2020 and successfully completed our seed funding round in October 2021. We also generate steady revenue through retailers who are already activated.
Munich Startup: When and where do you have the best ideas?
Lea Frank: During my morning run.
Munich Startup: What are your three favorite work tools?
Lea Frank: Asana, Teams and AirPods.
Munich Startup: What is your top tip for pitching?
Lea Frank: Ask yourself first: What is my goal? Then work towards that while pitching. On top of that, you should learn about your target group beforehand and also ask questions so you can respond to them specifically.
Munich Startup: Do you think now is a good time to start a company? Why?
Lea Frank: Because I’m convinced that it’s never the perfect time and you’re actually never really ready: What’s important is not being able to get the idea out of your head and that there’s a market for your startup idea.
Munich Startup: What technology or industry would you bank on when founding your next startup?
Lea Frank: Fintech, SaaS in general or something completely different with interior design.
Munich Startup: What do you think could still use some improvement in Munich as a startup location?
Lea Frank: Networking among startups and a visible positioning across Germany of Munich as a startup location!
Munich Startup: What founder would you like to meet in person some day? And what would you ask them?
Lea Frank: Valentin Stalf, Whitney Wolfe Herd, Tobias Lütke – How has your role changed during your journey? From the founding up to becoming a grown-up company – and what advice would you give to all founders who are just getting started?